About the Role
The Oxford School of Global and Area Studies (OSGA) invites applications for a three-year fixed-term Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in the economic and social science dimensions of the Korean Wave (Hallyu), commencing on 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
This Fellowship forms part of the Hallyu South Korean Studies Programme and offers an exciting opportunity for an early career researcher to develop an independent and internationally recognised research profile. The successful candidate will undertake innovative research on the contemporary Korean economy and the global economic impact of Korean cultural industries, contributing to Oxford’s growing leadership in interdisciplinary South Korean Studies.
Working closely with Professor Jieun Kiaer and colleagues across OSGA and the wider University, the postholder will play an active role in shaping the intellectual direction of Hallyu Studies at Oxford.
About You
You will be an early career scholar who has recently completed, or is close to completing, a PhD in Economics or a related social science discipline (such as Political Economy, Economic Sociology, Cultural Economy, or Marketing and Consumer Studies).
You will have a clear and compelling research agenda that engages with the economic and social science aspects of Hallyu, and demonstrates strong potential to contribute to debates on:
The role of Korean cultural industries (e.g. K-pop, film, television, gaming, digital media) in the global economy
The relationship between culture, markets, and economic development in contemporary South Korea
The transnational dynamics of cultural consumption, branding, and digital platforms
You will be able to demonstrate evidence of, or strong potential for, high-quality academic publications, the ability to communicate research effectively, both in writing and through presentations and a commitment to teaching and graduate supervision. You will have the ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary environment
The Role
The successful candidate will:
Develop and deliver an independent programme of research on the Korean Wave and its economic dimensions
Publish high-quality research outputs in leading journals and academic presses
Contribute to teaching, including a seminar on the Contemporary Korean Economy
Participate in graduate supervision within OSGA and related faculties
Organise and contribute to academic activities, including a Hallyu Seminar Series and international research events
Engage with scholars, policymakers, and industry stakeholders working on Korean cultural industries
How to Apply
You will be required to provide a CV, supporting statement addressing the selection criteria as well as a research proposal outlining your proposed project during the Fellowship.
We request that candidates do not submit any published work at this stage.
The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon (UK time) on Friday 24th April 2026.
Interviews are to be held online during the week commencing 18th May 2026.